The Opportunity
The Procurement Officer is responsible for managing the end-to-end procurement process across the school group. This includes sourcing, evaluating, and negotiating with suppliers to ensure the timely and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services that meet the organization’s quality, compliance, and sustainability standards. The role supports smooth school operations through effective vendor management, cost control, and adherence to procurement policies.
The Role
Procurement Operations
- Manage the full procurement cycle, from requisition to delivery and payment.
- Prepare and process purchase orders and requisitions for all goods and services required by the schools, including consumables, educational resources, equipment, and subscriptions.
- Maintain and develop a reliable supplier base by identifying, assessing, and monitoring vendors.
- Place and track local and international orders, ensuring on-time delivery, quality compliance, and adherence to import/customs requirements where applicable.
Inventory & Records Management
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all purchases, quotations, pricing data, and supplier information.
- Ensure proper documentation, including delivery receipts, invoices, approvals, and vendor contracts, in line with audit and compliance requirements.
Budget & Cost Control
- Manage orders against budget codes to ensure all procurements align with approved budgets.
- Track expenditures and monitor supplier performance to identify cost-saving opportunities.
Supplier Management
- Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers that offer the best value, quality, and reliability.
- Negotiate terms, conditions, and pricing to secure cost-effective contracts.
- Resolve supplier-related issues promptly to ensure consistent service levels.
Compliance & Policy Adherence
- Ensure all procurement activities comply with group procurement policies, internal audit standards, and local regulations.
- Support due diligence and vendor pre-qualification processes to uphold transparency and governance.
Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement
- Collaborate with School Heads, Facilities, IT, and Academic Departments to understand procurement requirements and timelines.
- Liaise with the Finance Department for invoice verification and timely payment processing.
The Person
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
- Strong knowledge of procurement processes, vendor management, and contract administration.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Netsuite)
Key Competencies
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and analytical skills.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational ability.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Integrity, transparency, and commitment to quality and compliance.
Queen Elizabeth’s Schools are an equal opportunity employer and is deeply committed to safeguarding our students, ensuring their safety and wellbeing. We expect all staff and members of our community to share this commitment and to promptly report any concerns about a student’s or community member’s safety or wellbeing. Applicants must be willing to undergo rigorous child protection screening, including checks with past employers and providing Police Clearance Certificates from all countries that the applicant has resided in.
